Solve your Computer Problems using the Internet

There are countless websites with resources to help you solve problems and become a more proficient computer user. To find them do a Google search for common problems that match yours -- experiment with ways of wording your Google searches so the results returned are more appropriate to your search.

For example if Outlook Express freezes when you select the preview pane, try searching for the full phrase:
"outlook express preview pane" freeze or "outlook express" "preview pane" freezes (within quotations as shown). You can also try different descriptions or use a different order to get a broader list of results.

Obviously if you get any error messages -- e.g. Outlook Express error 0x800ccc0f -- you should include that in your search as well.

Here are a few sites to get you started:

• Microsoft Knowledgebase
  For known issues with any of their products.
• E-How - How to do Just About Anything
  Everything you need to know about how to purchase a computer and computer equipment. Mac or PC? Laptop or Desktop? How fast should it be? How much memory should it have? What kind of printer is best? Don't be overwhelmed. Be informed with eHow tips on how to buy a computer.
• OpenWith.org - Free programs to open any file extension
Have a file you don't know how to open? Think you need an expensive piece of software to open it? Chances are there is a great free program that's just as good as the expensive one, and you'll find it here. OpenWith.org provides detailed information about most file extension and links to free programs that can open and create each type of file.
• Windows Secrets Newsletter
  The Windows Secrets Newsletter is a twice-monthly e-mail publication that reveals to you essential tricks of running Microsoft Windows. This is "must have" if you're learning to drive Windows ... or even for the more advance who just want to hone their skills.
• All About Microsoft
  Mary-Jo Foley is one of the world's most recognised authorities on all things Microsoft.
• Paul Thurrott's SuperSite for Windows
  As the name suggests, this site covers all aspects of all Windows versions.
• Tech Spot
  Excellent resource - use the search box to find answers to your problems.
• Scot’s Newsletter
  Windows, Macintosh OS X, and Linux - broadband, do-it-yourself networking, Microsoft, Apple, the Internet, and computing issues. You'll get insights, analysis,hardware and software reviews, explanations, tips, and straight-shooting advice about desktop computing today, and tomorrow. It's information you can really use.
• The Elder Geek on Windows XP
  More information about Microsoft operating systems and applications that you can possibly imagine!
• The Elder Geek on Windows Vista
  As above, but for the latest version of Windows.
• PC Pitstop TechTalk Newsletter
  A collection of useful tips and information available via RSS Subscription.
• PC Pitstop Driver Library
  In order to get the most from your PC, it is good practice to keep your drivers up-to-date. But few people do, because your system has so many drivers, and there are so many updates. This database is free to all users and provides a detailed online database of the latest drivers.
• openwith.org
  Have a file you don't know how to open? Think you need an expensive piece of software to open it? Chances are there is a great free program that's just as good as the expensive one, and you'll find it here.
• fixyourownprinter.com
  Contains a forum, database of error codes, guides, publications & drivers to help you diagnose printing problems.
• PC Rescue (Australian site)
  Some excellent advice, tips and information for beginners and more experienced users. PC Rescue's managing director regularly helps ABC radio listeners with computer problems. They offer a free archive of common computer problems that could save you hours of time and frustration.
• SeniorNet Association Inc. (Australian site)
  Dedicated to helping seniors use computers and the internet. Their motto is "Seniors helping Seniors"
• Computer Hope
  A collection of free services that allows any user to access its database of extensive free computer related information. A popular destination for end-users as well as computer support facilities for answering computer related questions.
• Windows XP Advice & Information
  Windows XP Update information and technical resources that help YOU get the most from Windows XP.
• The Hotfix How-to's
  Step-by-step guides to everyday computer tasks.
• IT Tips
  Popular aebsite for application tips, explorer tips, installation tips, Internet Explorer tips, keyboard tips, miscellaneous tips, network and communication tips, registry tips, SQL Server Tips & Win98 Tips.
• Web Alley
  Web Publishing made easy! This is a very helpful site for those getting into web page design - lots of tutorials, resources (including graphics and html) and links.